Demonstrators in Abkhazia have stormed the parliament and presidential complex in the capital, Sukhumi, after the government planned to pass a controversial bill that would have legalized Russian investment and land ownership in the region.

The proposed bill has now been withdrawn following the occupation of key government buildings by protesters. Both the president and the prime minister have reportedly fled the presidential compound in response to the unrest.

Abkhazia, which declared independence in 1999, is recognized as an independent state by Russia following the 2008 Georgian-Russian war, although Georgia and most of the international community regard the region as part of Georgian territory.

The bill’s potential to allow Russian investment in local real estate sparked fears among locals that it could lead to the destruction of Abkhazia’s scenic landscapes and drive up property prices, making it unaffordable for residents.

Abkhazia, once a popular Soviet holiday destination, has maintained close ties with Russia since it was recognized by Moscow.

The Russian foreign ministry advised its citizens to avoid traveling to Abkhazia and to exercise caution in light of the unrest. While Russia has expressed trust that the situation will be resolved peacefully, it emphasized that it will not interfere in Abkhazia’s internal affairs.

Protest videos showed crowds breaking into the parliament building, smashing windows, and removing security bars. Protesters are reportedly demanding the resignation of President Aslan Bzhania, with the opposition already discussing a potential successor.

This is not the first time Abkhazia’s leadership has faced calls for resignation; in 2014, widespread protests led to the resignation of then-president Alexander Ankvab, and opposition leader Raul Khadzhimba was forced to step down in 2020 after similar unrest.